Water Quality in St. Paul, MN

The water hardness for Saint Paul Regional Water Service ( SPRWS ) averages between 5-6 grains per gallon. St Paul uses a lime softening during their water treatment process to reduce hardness from the 20s down to 5-6 grains. Although the water is still considered hard at 5-6 grains, it isn’t as noticeable as surrounding areas.

One problem that many residence of St. Paul face with their water quality is lead contamination. It is important to note that water coming treated by SPRWS treatment is below the regulated safe levels. The problem comes from aging infrastructure and plumbing.

In 2018, SPRWS found higher than the maximum 15 parts per billion levels of lead in 2 out 50 homes.

Recently, November 8th 2023, a lead advisory was posted indicating several homes tested at lead levels above the 15ppb Maximum Contamination Level Set by the EPA. A lead free posted was released.

Homes with old plumbing or that are tested with high levels of lead should install a whole house and/or drinking water filtration system. These systems will remove lead and other contaminants that have made their way into your home’s water from aging plumbing.

Working with the Minnesota Department of Health, Saint Paul Regional Water Services tests water for more than 100 regulated contaminants. SPRWS also monitors unregulated contaminants such as Sodium and Sulfate.

The reported Chlorine levels, although below the regulated limit, were higher than other local communities. Chlorine is used as a disinfectant in the water filtration process.

If you are concerned about your home’s drinking water, give us a call 651-777-1389. Merle’s Water Conditioning is an independent water quality specialist providing clean and safe drinking water for the Twin Cities area since 1959.

Water Quality Reports